What is this?

CALGARY- A judge has ordered the father of Meika Jordan to stand trial for first-degree murder in connection with her death.

Spencer Jordan and his wife Marie Magoon were arrested after six-year-old Meika died of blunt force trauma in 2011. Both have since been charged with first-degree murder, but in May Jordan argued for his charge to be reduced.

In court on Wednesday, the judge ruled that the original charges will stand.

“We’ve always maintained the mindset that no matter what happens, nothing is going to bring Meika back,” said stepfather Brian Woodhouse. “But to know progress is being made, and to work as hard as they are, it’s the best news we’ve had in years.”

Both Jordan and Magoon have been ordered to be tried by judge alone, and proceedings are expected to begin next March.